A TALE as old as time which promises to be a Beast of a production will be performed by Norton Theatre Group.

The group is putting on Beauty and the Beast at Norton Parish Hall - its 29th pantomime in 30 years.

Beauty and the Beast, written by the company's very own Chris Bennion, tells the tale and misfortunes of Maurice Dubois, a merchant whose luck has most definitely run out.

The story follows him and his three daughters who have decidedly different attitudes to their newly impoverished state.

Throw into the mix a bar owning dame, three work-shy dimwits, a strange hairy chap living as a hermit with only his devoted servant for company and the group has the right ingredients for the perfect pantomime.

The audience will also enjoy a healthy dose of slapstick, lots of great song and dance numbers as well as a hint of romance.

Beauty and the Beast will run from Thursday, January 8 until Saturday, January 10 with shows at 7pm and a 2pm matinee performance on Saturday.

Tickets, costing from £4 to £7.50, are available by calling Christine McGovern on 01905 820459 or mcgovern260@btinternet.com.

They can also be booked online by going through the group’s Website at www.NortonTheatreGroup.org.uk